With nearly every village and town in Sussex planning some sort of Coronation event this weekend, you have plenty to choose from if you want to get into the spirit of things and join the celebrations. So here are just a few Sussex Coronation events that we thought sounded special.
East Sussex Coronation castles
In East Sussex, head to Bodiam Castle which is going to be decked with flags and bunting as it hosts various activities including craft workshops, Medieval archery and interactive storytelling. There are lots of picnic spots in the grounds. The Bodiam events are being held on 6th, 7th, and 8th May.
Alternatively, head to Pevensey on the 7th of May and enjoy a tea party in style with the ruins of Pevensey Castle as a backdrop.
Horsham Coronation street party
On Sunday 7th of May across Horsham town (including Piries Place, The Carfax, Market Square, West Street, and Horsham Museum and Art Gallery), there will be live music, dance, street performances, refreshments and stalls, children’s activities and more.
In Horsham Park, The Sussex Band of the Royal British Legion will perform 2-4 pm on the Podium and Benson’s Funfair will have a mini funfair.
Ridgeview’s sparkling Coronation afternoon tea
On Sunday 7th and Monday 8th May you can enjoy afternoon tea against the backdrop of Chardonnay vines and the South Downs at Ridgeview. Indulge in an assortment of handcrafted sweet and savoury treats, from Ridgeview’s cured salmon on brioche roll, to scones served with Evelyn’s strawberry & elderflower jam. Served at the new Rows & Vine restaurant, and accompanied by a glass of Bloomsbury NV. Ridgeview has also launched two Coronation gift sets.
Bateman’s at Burwash
Beautiful Bateman’s makes a great setting for Coronation celebrations, and they’ll be hosting lawn games and cream teas on 6th, 7th and 8th of May.
Wakehurst’s new trail
On the 6th of May, Wakehurst near Ardingly is opening a number of new family activities to celebrate the King’s Coronation, including the brand-new Wild Wood sculpture trail, featuring 20 hand-crafted structures, opening on 6th May. Other experiences include the newly refurbished natural log trail Tree Trunk Trek, messy play at the Children’s Walled Garden or experience the stunning views from Coronation Meadow, all reopening to mark the weekend.
Historic Alfriston
Hopelessly pretty and charismatic Alfriston is starting the 7th May Coronation celebrations with a church service at St Andrew’s Church followed by lunch and music on the High Street, a Royal Parade dress up, games, stalls, competitions, and cream teas.
Chichester Cathedral
Watch the Coronation on the big screen on Saturday 6th May from 10 am – 3 pm on the picturesque Chichester Cathedral Green. There will be a large outdoor screen and deck chairs will be set out for people to gather for picnics. There will also be themed arts, crafts, games and face painting for children to enjoy. Expect the streets of Chichester to be decorated and bring a picnic.
Archives at Borde Hill
At the gorgeous Borde Hill, near Haywards Heath, archive material relating to the 1937 and 1953 Coronations will be on display in the Africa Glasshouse as well as jubilant red, white, and blue floral displays. There’s a children’s royal trail to spot hidden crowns dotted around the garden and Coronation cupcakes, champagne sorbet, Coronation cocktails and mocktails from the Dog & Duck bar.
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